Sweden Withdraws Plan to Lower Criminal Age to 13 Amid Gang Violence

The Swedish government has withdrawn a controversial proposal to lower the age of criminal responsibility to 13, allowing children as young as 13 to be sentenced to prison. Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer acknowledged that the plan lacked sufficient parliamentary support. The proposal was part of a broader crackdown on criminal gangs that have increasingly recruited minors for violent acts, including murders and bombings. Sweden has seen a surge in gang-related violence, with children often used as perpetrators due to their immunity from severe penalties. The withdrawal marks a setback for the government's efforts to address the crisis, which has sparked national debate on juvenile justice and public safety. The decision follows criticism from child rights groups and legal experts who argued that imprisonment would harm minors without deterring crime.

Global Impact

Economically, the withdrawal may lead to higher long-term costs for Sweden in policing, social services, and insurance, potentially slowing GDP growth. Politically, it weakens the government's stance on law and order, possibly fueling support for far-right parties ahead of elections.